BMW In-Car Wireless Charging

BMW offers in-car phone wireless charging as standard in the M series models and as an option on the rest of the range. There are two different wireless charging solutions available depending on the car model, which work in a very similar way. The first is a wireless charging pocket located inside the central console. The second is a wireless charging tray which can be located on the central console or under the armrest again depending on models. Both solutions also allow charging of the BMW Display Key without the need of an extra cable.

HOW TO USE WIRELESS CHARGING IN YOUR BMW

To charge with the wireless charging tray solution, simply place the device on the charger. The tray is adjustable in length however larger devices won't fit.

With the charging pocket solution, open the central console and slide the phone into the pocket with the back facing the side of the unit. The pocket is scratch free and it has been designed with mechanical hinges which allow to fit phones of different sizes with or without a case as well as the BMW Display Key. When a device is inserted, a blue LED light will illuminate to indicate it is charging. The iDrive on-board system can be then configured to send a 'Forgotten cell phone' alert at the time the ignition is turned off.

iPHONE WIRELESS CHARGING IN YOUR BMW - COMPATIBILITY

The BMW charging solutions are compatible with the universal Qi standard. All Qi-enabled smartphones including the iPhone 8 and iPhone X can be charged directly from the charger, however larger phablet size devices like the iPhone 8 Plus or Samsung S8 Plus won't fit in the tray phone holder solution.

Apple iPhone models prior to the iPhone 8 will require a wireless charging accessory like the Aircharge 'Made for iPhone' Wireless Charging Case to enable the device to work with Qi chargers. Aircharge is an official partner of the BMW Group and offer a customised version of the Aircharge iPhone case with BWW branding which can be purchased through BMW Group’s online retail channels and stores.